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The Vedic Friends Association is an expanding, global network of progressive people helping each other understand, practice and promote the Universal Truths found in Vedic Dharma, the ancient knowledge of India. In this way we explore its spiritual, social and scientific dimensions for the good of all, and become a powerful force for beneficial change in this troubled world.

We are a group of people who were individually working in various ways to spread a greater understanding of what the Vedic culture and philosophy is and what it has to offer. We have been doing this for years separately but have now joined together. We also invite everyone else to join us to do the same–to act in ways to preserve, protect and share the universal Dharma with all others.

Vedic culture is the world’s most ancient and largest, continuous spiritual tradition. It is the most globally powerful indigenous civilization left on Earth, still practiced by over a billion people. The Vedic tradition is based on Universal Truths of Dharma or natural laws that are applicable for anyone, at any time in history and anywhere in the world. Much tradition and evidence indicates that Vedic culture, with Sanskrit as the primal language, was the original universal culture beyond the many other traditions that later developed throughout the world. It is a tradition that emphasizes individual freedom to investigate spiritual truth to its deepest level and provides the methods by which one can have personal experience of the spiritual dimension.

The Vedic Friends Association (VFA) is a free organization with no fee required for joining. It provides contact for like-minded people of any background who want to reach a higher level of understanding and insight through the study and practice of the timeless Vedic wisdom. The VFA welcomes all people to learn and participate in whatever level of interest a person has in Vedic culture and its uplifting path. The VFA is based on Self-realization and a rational approach. Its activities are founded on voluntary service, a spiritual orientation, ethical principles, and are peaceful in nature as prescribed in the Vedic science. Please see Our Mission page for more information in this regard.

The VFA also aims to help unite those who are already practicing or teaching various aspects of the Vedic system in a new level of cooperation for helping spread the genuine knowledge that the Vedic culture has always provided, and to present solutions for many of the world’s problems. Be sure to check out our Affiliate Writers and Teachers. We are networking with a growing number of people from around the world in varied backgrounds or schools of thought, and who are experienced in various aspects of Vedic study. These include writers, authors, researchers, lecturers, musicians, artists, Vedic astrologers, Ayurvedic practitioners, vegetarian cooks, and more, all of whom make informative presentations in their fields. Many have years worth of experience and have done radio and television shows, or extensively traveled on lecture tours. They can give interviews, provide presentations, and teach people more about their field of Vedic study. Interested parties or groups can arrange to have teams of our members to make insightful presentations at their conferences or meetings.

The Vedic Friends Association invites everyone to participate with our network and gain access to new friends and contacts of a similar mind and interest. If you are spiritually inclined and looking for a deeper understanding of life, the universe, or your real identity and relation with the Supreme, then the VFA will be something of which you will want to be a part. If you are interested in studying the Vedic sciences or the history of Vedic culture, then the VFA can help provide you with assistance in this way. Feel free to read the pages of this website and get a better understanding of the purpose of the VFA and how you may benefit by adding yourself to this association. Then be sure to contact us for further participation. There is much that we hope to offer you.

This is to personally introduce you to a new and exciting association and to invite you to be a member and participate in it. It is called the Vedic Friends Association (VFA). Within this association we want to cater to the needs of the individual and bring to everyone the adventure and freedom of finding oneself to the fullest extent. We want to help bring forth new realms of inner exploration and awareness, which paves the way for personal happiness and higher self-worth, along with the possibility of unique individual development and collective social change for a better world.

Our expanding team of writers, researchers and practitioners have found that the knowledge that may be most capable of providing such deep insights into the spiritual, social and scientific aspects of life is not something new, but may only require a new look at it. This is the Vedic culture and its philosophy, and what it offers humanity. It is the oldest living culture on the planet and has provided people with many of the deepest and most profound insights into the purpose of our existence for many thousands of years. So it is our intent to give every member the freedom to unreservedly follow their inquisitiveness into what Vedic culture can provide and how it can enhance their life.

We are non-sectarian and are not in competition with any other organization or culture. We look toward making strong, cooperative ties amongst a broad range of people with similar interests for concerted efforts of teamwork, participation and support for helping elaborate the universal truths in Vedic knowledge. Such an association means a stronger voice and more effective and all-inclusive strategies for the upliftment of everyone. We don’t want to exclude anyone. We feel that everyone can benefit from this association and by understanding the deep insights within Vedic knowledge.

Therefore, anyone from any background or level of curiosity is welcome to join. We are also looking for people who are writers, lecturers, those who can make presentations, or who want to be pro-active in helping develop ideas for bringing this Vedic knowledge to mainstream society.

So take a look at our web site: www.vedicfriends.org. It has much more information about the VFA family, including our mission statement, which I am sure will interest you. You can also find a growing list of writers and lecturers who are joining our endeavors. You can let us know of your consideration by visiting the VFA web site and fill out and send us one of the membership forms to join us.

We have already produced our own book from contributions from our network of writers and Vedic practitioners who are VFA members. The book is called “Vedic Culture: The Difference it can Make in Your Life”, which is fully described on our website. We have also produced our Vedic Ambassador Study Course so a person can receive a certificate of recognition for their studies in the basics of Hinduism and the Vedic tradition. We also have regular conferences open to all members where various levels of research are presented on different aspects of Vedic Culture and issues regarding India. We also have an email newsgroup and a monthly journal to share our ideas and information within the VFA family.

Essentially, we want to help preserve, protect and expand the genuine knowledge of Vedic culture and provide the means to network with those individuals or organizations who want to do the same. The VFA aims to help bring such people together to work more effectively in a mood of cooperation and increased understanding. We are also introducing this knowledge and spiritual awareness to others who are simply interested to learn more about it or are looking for answers to the mysteries of life.

Also, if you know of any other people who would be interested in this, please pass this invitation along to them, or inform them of the VFA web site and tell them to contact us. This is just the beginning and there is a lot that will gradually be developed. Hoping that this meets you well and that we will hear from you soon.

The word Veda has its Sanskrit root vid, which means “to know”, or simply “knowledge”. The word Veda also has three root meanings, representing its connection with the power of God, namely; 1) that Vedic knowledge is eternal; 2) Veda is the essential knowledge itself, which means that it provides knowledge of God, or that we can know the Supreme through the Veda; and 3) Veda gives the most desirable thing to the souls, which is the Divine Bliss that comes from our connection with God.

As most scholars on Vedic philosophy know, when you say Vedas you refer to the original four Vedas: the Rig, Yajur, Sama, and Atharva Vedas. From the four main Vedas are branches or appendices called Brahmanas, which relate to rituals and ceremonies. From these are derived the Aranyakas. The Upanishads are the appendices (the secret and esoteric knowledge) of the Aranyakas. When you say Veda (without the s) you not only refer to the four Vedas, but also to the Brahmanas, Aranyakas, and Upanishads, or all the texts that are considered Shruti. Shruti is considered the original revealed knowledge, which was unveiled to self-realized sages. The remaining parts of Vedic literature consist of the Mahabharata and Bhagavad-gita, the Ramayana, and the Puranas. These are the Itihasas or histories and supplemental portions of the Vedic literature, which they call Smriti, or that which is remembered. When we say “Vedic literature”, it refers to both Shruti and Smriti in a general way. However, some scholars think that the Shruti is the genuine Vedic portions of this philosophy and more important than the Smriti. So some may object to the use of the word “Vedic” to refer to that which includes all of the Vedic texts, both Shruti and Smriti. However, this is not an accurate view according to the Vedic texts themselves.

For example, the Brihadaranyaka Upanishad (4.5.11) also relates: “The Rig, Yajur, Sama, and Atharva Vedas, the Itihasas, Puranas, Upanishads, verses and mantras, sutras, and the spiritual knowledge and explanations within, all emanate from the Supreme Being.” It not only says it once, but the Brihadaranyaka Upanishad says it again (2.4.10) as follows: “As from a fire kindled with wet fuel, clouds of smoke issue forth, so, my dear, verily, from this glorious great God has been breathed forth the Rig-veda, the Yajur-veda, the Sama-veda, Atharvanagirasa, Itihasas, Puranas, science of knowledge, mystic doctrines or Upanishads, pithy verses, aphorisms, elucidations and commentaries. From Him, indeed, are all these breathed forth.” Thus, they all have importance in presenting Vedic information, and one should not be biased toward one set of shastra or scripture to exclude the other. Therefore, to leave out the supplemental portions of the Vedic literature would deprive the reader of an enormous amount of Vedic knowledge and elaborated explanations. In this way, if anyone feels the “Vedic” tradition includes only the four Vedas up to the Upanishads, the Vedic tradition itself shows this as a wrong view, and that all of the ancient texts which support the Vedic conclusion are also Vedic and should be considered as such.

The Mahabharata (Adi Parva 1.267) explains the necessity of understanding Vedic knowledge with the help of the Puranas: “One should expand and accept the meaning of the Vedas with the help of the Itihasas and Puranas. The Vedas are afraid of being mistreated by one who is ignorant of the Itihasas and Puranas.” This is quite similar to what is related in the Prabhasa-khanda (2.93) section of the Skanda Purana, where it is said, “I consider the Puranas equal to the Vedas. . . The Vedas feared that their purport would be distorted by inattentive listening, but their purport was established long ago by the Itihasas and Puranas. What is not found in the Vedas is found in the smritis. And what is not found in either is described in the Puranas. A person who knows the four Vedas along with the Upanishads but who does not know the Puranas is not very learned.” In this way, we should understand that one’s education in Vedic culture and science is not complete if one excludes the understanding and knowledge given in the Puranas and the Itihasas. It is the Puranas which more fully explain that which is found in the four Vedas.

To further verify this point, in the Naradiya Purana Lord Shiva is quoted as saying to his wife Parvati that, “I consider the message of the Puranas to be more important than that of the Vedas. All that is in the Vedas is in the Puranas without a doubt.” So I relate this simply for those who feel that there should be some further distinction between Shruti and Smriti and may object to the use of the term “Vedic” within our name–The Vedic Friends Association–although many parts of the Vedic literature point to the need for using the Puranas and other portions of the Smritis to more fully understand the depths of Vedic knowledge.

Furthermore, some of the greatest of spiritual authorities, like Shankaracarya, Ramanujacarya, Madhvacarya, and others, have presented Smriti as valid evidence of spiritual truths and wrote commentaries on Bhagavad-gita. In fact, Madhvacarya, in his commentary on the Vedanta-sutras (2.1.6), quotes the Bhavishya Purana, which states: “The Rig-veda, Yajur-veda, Sama-veda, Atharva-veda, Mahabharata, Pancaratra, and the original Ramayana are all considered Vedic literature. The Vaishnava supplements, the Puranas, are also Vedic literature.” This would obviously mean that the knowledge within them is also Vedic. Even the Chandogya Upanishad (7.1.4) mentions the Puranas as the fifth Veda. The Srimad-Bhagavatam (1.4.20) also clearly agrees with this: “The four divisions of the original sources of knowledge (the Vedas) were made separately. But the historical facts and authentic stories mentioned in the Puranas are called the fifth Veda.” Therefore, why should we argue with these conclusions? Actually, when it comes to understanding the verdict of the Vedic tradition, we should understand it as presented by the Vedic authorities and the tradition itself rather than depending on other standards.

3. Dealing with issues that may prevent or stifle our freedom to practice the Universal Dharma.

4. Projects for developing and identifying proper media to help spread the true history and developments of India and Vedic culture, and other projects for the benefit of all people.

We need the support of concerned individuals like you for contributing to the continuation, protection and further development of Vedic dharma. As the VFA depends primarily on donations for sustaining these important activities, we welcome your contributions at any level you can participate. We also welcome your participation in the organization and its activities.

If you share in our concern, then let us unite in the cause. Besides being a member and participating in the Vedic Friends Association, which is a free affiliation, you can also give financial donations to help our work. Any donation is tax exempt in the USA, and greatly assists us in many ways, whether it be maintaining our office work, our website, or in the development of new projects like those described above.

If you would like to support our projects and endeavors in a financial way, then please print and fill out this form and mail it with your tax-exempt donation to the address below. You will receive a receipt to deduct your donation from your taxes, along with the satisfaction of helping in the preservation and presentation of genuine Vedic knowledge.

We will be establishing contacts for the Vedic Friends Association in various places throughout the United States. As these develop, we will be listing them in a directory for your convenience.

We will also be in constant email and internet contact for people no matter where you may be located. So to begin with, you may contact the Vedic Friends Association at: Srinandan@aol.com. Emails for our other contacts are listed on our “Affiliate Writers and Associates” page.

The Vedic Friends Association also offers an email Journal for all of our friends and associates. This will cover a variety of topics for your information and personal or spiritual development. Articles will include topics on spirituality, the origins of Vedic culture, the basis of Vedic spiritual knowledge, Vedic astrology, Ayurveda, as well as announcements of activities about its members, and much more.

The VFA aims to be an ongoing process by which everyone can get deeper insights into the purpose of life and the universe. The email Journal and Newsgroup will be part of that process.

Often we get requests for a list of books that we would suggest for those who want to increase their understanding of the Vedic and Hindu traditions, both spiritual and otherwise. What follows is a list that will help you. They are books that are especially written in a way that allows anyone to understand a variety of Vedic topics

Most of these are written by members of our Vedic Friends Association who are experienced in making presentations to a wide variety of both western or Indian audiences. So they will definitely have accurate views of Vedic culture without the general misunderstandings or misconceptions that are so prominent in many books that are out there. They will also be explained in a way that anyone can understand, for both those who are new or experienced in Vedic knowledge.

You can also see our Recommended Books list for Children and Young Adults.

More books will be added in time.

The First Book by the VFA Affiliate Writers Team

Vedic Culture: The Difference It Can Make In Your Life

This new book by various writers in the VFA shows the advantages of the Vedic paths of improvement and self-discovery that you can use in your own life to attain personal spiritual awareness, happiness, and fulfillment. It also provides a new view of what these avenues have to offer from some of the most prominent writers on Vedic culture in the West, who discovered how it has affected and benefited their own lives.

For the benefit of individuals and for social progress, the Vedic system is as relevant today as it was in ancient times. Discover why there is a growing renaissance in what the Vedic tradition has to offer in this new book.

The Power of the Dharma: An Introduction to Hinduism and Vedic Culture, by Stephen Knapp.

This reveals why the Dharma is presently enjoying a renaissance among an increasing number of people who want to explore its teachings and see what its many techniques of self-discovery have to offer. In “The Power of the Dharma”, you will find:

Quotes by noteworthy people on the unique qualities of Hinduism; * essential principles of the Vedic spiritual path; * particular traits, customs, and explanations of Hindu worship; * descriptions of the main yoga systems; * significance and legends of the colorful Hindu festivals; * benefits of Ayurveda, Vastu, Vedic astrology, and gemology; * important insights of Dharmic life and how to begin practicing it.

The Dharmic path can provide you the means for attaining your own spiritual realizations and experiences. In this way, it is as relevant today as it was thousands of years ago. This is the power of Dharma’s universal teachings which have something to offer everyone!

The Vedic Ambassador Study Course, based on the book “The Power of the Dharma: An Introduction to Hinduism and Vedic Culture”. Now through this course, meant especially for Westerners everywhere, you can be certified for understanding the basics of the Vedic tradition and its philosophy, and achieve a beautiful certificate to show the dedication and knowledge you have worked to attain. You can also receive a membership card to carry with you. Copies of the certificate can be carried to India with you in case you need to show it to help be received more respectfully in the temples you visit. Click on the title for more details.

Books by Stephen Knapp

Be sure to see his website for book ordering information at http://www.stephen-knapp.com, which also has more elaborate descriptions on each book. The first book listed below is also available through Jaico Publishing House in Mumbai, India.

The Secret Teachings of the Vedas

This provides one of the best reviews of Vedic and Eastern philosophy, and summarizes some of the most elevated and important of all spiritual knowledge. This timeless and enlightening information on the Vedic philosophy is explained in a clear and concise way and is essential for all who want to increase their spiritual understanding and awareness. This is a book that can give you a new perspective of who you are and where you fit into the scheme of things. It provides hundreds of direct quotes from the Vedic texts that go into detail about the science of the soul, your real identity, life after death, reincarnation, karma, the nature of God, why we exist, and the importance and source of the Vedas. This book supplies straightforward information not explained in other religions or philosophies, and condenses information from a wide variety of Vedic texts. It is a must for all spiritual seekers. It also has a travel section on major holy sites and temples of South India with 85 photographs. 320 pages, ISBN:0-9617410-1-5, $14.95

The Universal Path to Enlightenment

This presents a most interesting and revealing survey of the major spiritual paths of the world and describes their histories, philosophical basis, and goals. Providing information about all of the major world religions, the different yoga systems, and others, it shows the essential similarities of all religions that all people of any culture or tradition can practice, which could bring about a united world religion. It also details the various branches of Vedic knowledge and the ultimate goal and most effective spiritual path for the people of this age. Also includes a travel section to the important places of eastern and central India with explanations of their importance, the legends, and a number of photographs of temples, people, etc. 415 pages, ISBN: 0-9617410-2-3, $14.95

The Vedic Prophecies: A New Look into the Future

This is the first book ever to present the unique predictions found in the ancient Vedic texts of India. These prophecies are like no others and will provide a very different view of the future and how things fit together in the plan for the universe. Now you can discover the amazing secrets that are hidden in the oldest spiritual writings on the planet. This book will reveal predictions of deteriorating social changes and how to avoid them; future droughts and famines; low-class rulers and evil governments; whether there will be another appearance (second coming) of God; and predictions of a new spiritual awareness and how it will spread around the world. The Vedic Prophecies carry an important message and warning for all of humanity. There is also a special travel section to the historical temples and holy sites of Western India. 240 pages, ISBN:0-9617410-4-X, $14.95

How the Universe was Created and Our Purpose In It

This book presents answers and details about the process of creation that are not available in any other traditions, religions, or areas of science. It offers the oldest rendition of the creation as described in the ancient Vedic texts, and provides insights into the spiritual purpose of it and what we are really meant to do here. These descriptions often agree and sometimes disagree with the modern scientific theories of creation, and offer some factors that science has yet to consider. Now, with this book, we can get a clearer understanding of how this universe appears, how the material energy develops, what is its real purpose, from where we really came, and how we fit into the plan for the universe. This book will also give any theist more information about how the universe is indeed a creation of God. To add a little adventure, it also contains a travel section to the major holy places of northern India with over 70 photos of temples, Deities and holy sites. 310 pages, ISBN: 0-9617410-8-2, $14.95

Proof of Vedic Culture’s Global Existence

Through this book you will see the history and traditional source of the Vedas and the Aryans, and how it was the parent of all other cultures. It shows how many scientific discoveries over the past several centuries are only rediscoveries of what was already known in the Vedic literature. How the origins of world language and literature are found in India and in Sanskrit. The Vedic influence and proof of its ancient existence found in such countries as Britain, France, Russia, Greece, China, Japan, Egypt, and in areas of Scandinavia, the Middle East, Africa, and the Americas. How Judaism, Christianity, Islam, and Buddhism were all influenced by the Vedic tradition and still contain many Vedic elements within them, even though these are often hidden or denied. It also includes the reasons way we need to work to preserve the Vedic culture. This book provides enough evidence about the ancient Vedic culture that it could quite possibly cause a major shift in the way we view religious history and traditions. 430 pages, ISBN: 978-1-4392-4648-1, $20.99

Facing Death: Welcoming the Afterlife

This book is provided to relieve anyone of the fear of death, and to supply a means to more clearly understand the purpose of it and how we can use it for our higher good. It will also help survivors of the departed souls to better understand what has happened and how to cope with it. It shows how death is not a tragedy, but a natural course of events meant to help us reach our destiny. To assist you in preparing for your own death, or that of a loved one, you will find guidelines for making one’s final days as peaceful and as smooth as possible, both physically and spiritually. This book is easy to read with soothing and comforting wisdom, along with stories of people who have been with departing souls, and an incredible near-death-experience. It is written especially for those who have given death little thought before. 135 pages, ISBN: 978-1-4401-1344-4, $13.95

Toward World Peace: Seeing the Unity Between Us All

This book points out the essential reasons why peace and cooperation among people, nations, and communities have been so difficult to establish, and advises the real way peace and harmony can be achieved. Short and to the point, it is thought provoking and provides inspiration for anyone. It can be especially useful for those working in politics, religion, interfaith, race relations, the media, or who have a position in leadership. It is also for those of us who simply want to spread the insights needed for bringing greater levels of peace, unity and equality between friends, neighbors, and communities. It will help us see the factors that keep us apart; how to break down cultural & religious differences; see through bodily designations; and see our real identity–the basis for common ground; and much more. 68 pages, ISBN: 0-9617410-5-8, $5.95

The Key to Real Happiness

This is a short but revealing guide to one of the prime purposes of life, how to be really happy. It shows what keeps us from being happy, where suffering exists, how to uplift your consciousness, how your thoughts and views create your future, how to unveil that real, ever-existing and self-sufficient happiness within you. 95 pages, ISBN: 1-930627-04-1, $6.95

NEW BOOKS

Reincarnation and Karma: How They Really Affect Us.

This book specializes in providing the Eastern explanation of our past and future lives and how we create our own good and bad experiences. Topics include: Reincarnation recognized throughout the world; The most ancient teachings on reincarnation; Reincarnation in Christianity; How we transmigrate from one body to another; Life between lives; Going to heaven or hell; The reason for reincarnation; Free will and choice; Karma of the nation; How we determine our own destiny; What our next life may be like; Becoming free from all karma, and How to prepare to make our next life the best possible. Numerous references and quotations from the Vedic texts are used to turn an introspective and complicated subject into an easily understood reference guide for all who wish to determine their own eternal destiny.

Destined for Infinity This book offers a different way to understand spiritual knowledge through a story. It tells the mystical escapade of a man, Roman West, who entered deep into the secrets of India where few other Westerners have been able to penetrate. In what was originally a simple search to find himself after a series of personal upheavals, he journeys to India and gets involved with a prophecy that becomes his inescapable destiny. While living with a master in the Himalayan foothills and traveling the spiritual path that leads to the Infinite, he witnesses the amazing powers the great sages can achieve. He also undergoes some of the most unusual experiences of his life. Under the guidance of his master, and after contending with his own doubts and the limited perspective he has of himself, he gradually opens to new degrees of understanding and awareness, and acquires the power to develop his own supernatural abilities. He then attains the sacred vision of the enlightened sages and enters the amazing and unfathomable realm of Infinity and the vision of cosmic consciousness. Such a description has been provided in very few other places. It is now available through www.iuniverse.com/bookstore, 6″x9″, 255 pages, $16.95. It is also available as an adobe ebook (for $6.00) that can be downloaded and read anywhere while on your computer. To order, simply go directly to the book details page by using this link: www.iuniverse.com/bookstore/book_detail.asp?isbn=0-595-33959-X.

The Heart of Hinduism: The Eastern Path to Freedom, Empowerment and Illumination.

This is a definitive and easy to understand guide to the essential as well as devotional heart of the Vedic/Hindu philosophy. You will see the depths of wisdom and insights that are contained within this profound spiritual knowledge. This presentation contains numerous references from a variety of the ancient Vedic texts to provide a direct view of the spiritual knowledge that they hold. Thus, it is especially good for anyone who lacks the time to research the many topics that are contained within the numerous Vedic manuscripts and to see the advantages of knowing them. This also provides you with a complete process for progressing on the spiritual path, making way for individual empowerment, freedom, and spiritual illumination. All the information is now at your fingertips.

Book orders for bookstores or catalogs can also be placed through iUniverse by calling 1-402-323-7800 extension 501, or by emailing: book.orders@iuniverse.com. European orders will be shipped out of England.

The Eleventh Commandment: The Next Step in Social Spiritual Development. Based on the Universal Spiritual Truths, or the deeper levels of spiritual understanding, this book presents a new code in a completely nonsectarian way to bring humanity to a higher level of spiritual consciousness that can impact all aspects of our life, such as politics. It shows how we can bring some of the spiritual atmosphere into this earthly existence, especially if we expect to reach the higher domain after death. It also explains how to: Identify our real Self and distinguish it from our false self; Open our hearts to one another and view others with greater appreciation; Utilize higher consciousness in everyday life; Find inner contentment and joy; Attain a higher spiritual awareness and perception; Manifest God’s plan for the world, Be a reflection of God’s love toward everyone; Attain the Great Realization of perceiving the Divine in all beings.

The world is in need of a new direction in its spiritual development, and this 11th Commandment is given as the next phase to manifest humanity’s most elevated potentials.

Seeing Spiritual India, A Guide to Temples, Holy Sites, Festivals and Traditions, is written especially for anyone who wants to have a deeper understanding of the spiritual traditions of India and learn what is the importance and history of the many holy sites that you can visit while traveling within this country. It is written for both those who are new to India and those who are experienced. This book goes beyond the usual descriptions of the typical tourist attractions and opens up the spiritual venue waiting to be revealed for a far deeper experience on every level.

Crimes Against India: And the Need to Protect its Ancient Vedic Tradition. 1000 Years of Attackes Against Hinduism and What to do About it. This book shows and describes how there is presently a war against Hinduism and its yoga culture. The weaknesses of India that allowed invaders to conquer her. Lessons from India’s real history that should not be forgotten. The atrocities committed by the Muslim invaders, and how they tried to destroy Vedic culture and its many temples, and slaughtered thousands of Indian Hindus. How the British viciously exploited India and its people for its resources. How the cruelest of all Christian Inquisitions in Goa tortured and killed thousands of Hindus. Action plans for preserving and strengthening Vedic India today. How all Hindus and concerned people must stand up and be strong for protecting the universal spiritual traditions of Vedic culture.

The following are available through Lotus Press, P.O.Box 325, Twin Lakes, WI. 53181 Phone: 800-824-6396 / www.lotuspress.com. Many other books are also available by David Frawley, which can be viewed on the Lotus Press website.

Yoga and the Sacred Fire, Paperback, List Price: $19.95

Yoga and the Sacred Fire explores the evolution of life and consciousness according to the cosmology and psychology of Fire, viewing Fire not only as a material but also as a spiritual principle. It shows how Yoga’s deeper fire wisdom can help us move forward to an enlightened planetary age, where humanity and nature can again be one in a higher awareness. ISBN: 0940985756.

Yoga and the Sacred Fire is a monumental work, encapsulating the profound wisdom that David Frawley (Vamadeva Shastri) has accumulated over decades of deep study, meditation and spiritual experience. The reader will rediscover Yoga as a powerful means to inner awakening and to addressing our prevailing global crisis. Frawley shares specific practices for contacting the inner fire and the “Divine Light of truth within us.” In this book are both the blueprint and the essential tools for every seeker of Self-realization. Ved Nanda, Vice Provost and Evans University Professor, University of Denver; and Thompson G. Marsh Professor of Law and Director, International Legal Studies Program, University of Denver College of Law

Gods, Sages and Kings

This presents serious evidence for a common spiritual culture that was the origin of an advanced civilization. This book is based on a new interpretation of the ancient Vedic teachings of India. It brings out many new insights of what has often been misinterpretations of archeological discoveries. It suggests that ancient Sumer, Egupt, China and even the Americas were related to the Vedic culture. 396 pages, ISBN: 0-910261-37-7, $19.95.

Tantric Yoga and the Wisdom Goddesses

This is an excellent introduction to the essence of Hindu Tantrism. This book covers the major concepts of Tantric practice of meditation and use of mantras, the ten Wisdom Goddesses, and corrects many misconceptions of this tradition. 260 Pages, ISBN: 0-910261-39-3, $16.95

Wisdom of the Ancient Seers

This book offers select verses from the Rig Veda that show their composers were sages and seers who were aware of symbolic communication of a spiritual nature, reaching the highest dimension. This brings a clearer understanding of the early Vedic knowledge. 280 pages, ISBN: 0-910261-36-9, $14.95

From the River of Heaven, Hindu and Vedic Knowledge for the Modern Day

An excellent introduction to Vedic knowledge. This book presents an overview of India’s spiritual tradition, which is the roots of the world’s religions and mystical traditions. 180 pages, ISBN: 0-910261-38-5, $12.95

The Oracle of Rama

This oracle of India is simple but uses the insights of Tulsidas to gain access to the secrets of a higher intelligence. This is to assist us in making karmically appropriate choices for a life of joy and fulfillment. 204 pages, ISBN: 0-910261-35-0

Marmas are Ayurvedic energy points similar to acupuncture points. They are connected to the chakras and nadis of yoga and are used to balance body and mind. Therapy using these marmas can direct our prana or vital energy for health, well being and personal transformation. 272 pages, ISBN: 0-940985-59-4, $21.95

The following books by David Frawley (Vamadeva Shastri) are published by Voice of India, 2/18, Ansari Road, New Delhi, 110 002. Many Voice of India books can also be found at the online bookstore at http://books.arshavidya.org.

How I Became a Hindu, My Discovery of Vedic Dharma

This is his most interesting autobiography of his transition through Christianity and on to the process of Self discovery and the insights of the Vedic tradition of Sanatana-Dharma, as well as the many aspects of India. 208 pages, ISBN: 81-85990-60-3, Rs.120

The Myth of the Aryan Invasion Theory

A short and concise book on how the theory of the Aryan invasion into India developed. It also presents evidence on how false and misleading this theory is, and how we should more accurately view ancient but advanced Vedic culture. 74 pages, ISBN: 81-85990-20-4.

Vedic Aryans and The Origins of Civilization, by Navaratna S. Rajaram and David Frawley, Foreword by Klaus K. Klostermaier.

This book goes deeply into the false ideas of the Aryan Invasion theory and presents evidence for the real history and development in the advanced nature of Vedic Indian culture. 330 pages, ISBN: 81-85990-36-0, Rs. 450

Books by Additional VFA Member Authors:

In Search of the Cradle of Civilization, by Georg Feuerstein, Subhash Kak and David Frawley

This book challenges the conventional ideas on ancient India and shows that the Vedic culture was quite advanced for their time. They had a high spiritual culture, which influenced the rest of the world. This shows the depth of the Rig Veda and how Vedic culture still has much to offer the world. 340 pages, ISBN: 0-8356-0720-8, $24.95

The Hidden History of the Human Race, by Michael Cremo and Richard L. Thompson.

This is the summary of their book, Forbidden Archeology. Originally published by Govardhan Hill Publishing, P.O.Box 52, Badger, CA 93603

This book presents evidence that the real archeological findings that show that the human race has been on this planet for hundreds of thousands of years have been covered up and concealed. This is called a “knowledge filter”. Outside that filter we find the conventional ideas of prehistory is largely incorrect. Herein we find a vast store of hidden knowledge about the real ancient age of humanity. 330 pages, ISBN: 0-9635309-6-8, $24.95.

Thiscontains solid scientific evidence showing how a subtle mind element and a conscious self that can exist apart from the body have been systematically eliminated from mainstream science by a process of knowledge filtration. “Any time knowledge filtration takes place you can expect a great deal of resistance, criticism, and ridicule when it is exposed and challenged,” says Cremo.

He bases his response on modern science and the world’s great wisdom traditions, including the Vedic philosophy of ancient India.

Based on Vedic astrology, this book reveals the lost links between religion, science, destiny, and free will. It is a clear guide to how the Divine actually manifests in the material world and how we can cooperate. It explains the true spiritual relevance of astrology in our lives and offers the profound revelation that God is the Original Astrologer.

KARMA: The Ancient Science of Cause & Effect In this compelling description of the ancient science of karma, award-winning author Jeffrey Armstrong reveals the deeper mysteries of the soul, reincarnation, the laws of nature and how cause and effect rules our lives. What we usually call science and think of as mechanical cause and effect has long been viewed by Enlightened Masters as the purposeful action of countless devas or divine being, who surround us in all we do and constantly deliver the results of our actions.

These long secret laws of karma, excavated from the Vedic wisdom of India, will inform your actions and encourage your spiritual vision to see how profoundly all that exists is interconnected in a sacred web of life. AVAILABLE JUNE, 2007. To place an order for a reserved autographed copy contact 1-866-872-6224 or email vasa108@telus.net USA clients: www.Mandala.org or www.amazon.com

Mantras, Yantras and Fabulous Gems–Healing Secrets of the Ancient Vedas, by Howard Beckman (ISBN: 0-9525172-5-6) Hardback, published by Balaji Publishing. $21.99. Available through Howard Beckman’s website at www.vedicworld.org.

This book was written to enable people, especially from the West, to understand and appreciate the ancient healing techniques that have been passed down verbally for generations and finally put into verse by the great sages and seers of ancient Bharata-varsha (India). Just one part of the Vedas-mantras, yantras and gemstone therapy have been utilized with Vedic astrology and Ayurveda as a form of prescription for thousands of years. It is the author’s wish that the reader, once having tasted this knowledge, will feel excited at the prospect of delving further into the Vedas and all the secrets they contain.

Vibrational Healing with Gems by Howard Beckman (ISBN : 81-212-0704-5) (Hardback) is published by Gyan Publishing House– $18.99. Available through Howard Beckman's website at www.vedicworld.org. "I have written this book as a complement to my previous book entitled Mantras, Yantras, and Fabulous Gems-Healing Secrets of the Ancient Vedas. Certain sections in that book are extensive in explaining birthstone systems, gemological characteristics of stones, and accompanying ritualistic ceremonies, but it did not as completely encompass the whole science of gem therapy as does the present work. What I began to discuss in my previous book I have clarified and quantified in this one with the intention of providing a far more complete understanding of how gems distribute the cosmic colors of the rainbow, and what their effects are on the body and mind. Vedic astrologers of the West will undoubtedly gain a great deal of insight into the recommendation of gems to be worn as rings and talismans on the body gleaned from my thirty years of experience in this field. I feel certain that this book will be helpful in many ways toward making gem therapy more useful and practical for the practitioners of this ancient science."

An Introduction to Vedic Astrology by Howard Beckman (ISBN 0 9525172 0 5) (Paperback) is published by Balaji Publishing – $13.99. Available through Howard Beckman’s website at www.vedicworld.org.

Highly acclaimed in the USA, this is the first book in the English language to bring the mysteries purpose and healing secrets within the science of Vedic astrology to the public. Easy to read, it is written for those wishing to understand and benefit from this ancient science without all the difficult symbols and jargon usually found in books on astrology yet a scholarly work also intended for those who have had horoscopes done to comprehend them in greater depth. Astrologers and laymen alike find this book an invaluable tool to gaining the keys to realization of not just Vedic astrology but it's inherent spiritual philosophy passed down by saints and sages of the ancient Indian civilization. For those having attended Howard's lectures or workshops it is a long awaited anthology of this timeless spiritual wisdom.

Agni! Meditation on the Sacred Fire, is from the meditations of David Frawley (Pandit Vamadeva Shastri), and features the reading from Yogi Harinam Baba Prem Tom Beal. It also features the music of Yogi Harinam Baba Prem Tom Beal. The CD consists of two meditations: Track #1 The Fire of the Spiritual Heart. 8:03 minutes in length Track #2 Meditation on the 7 Sacred Fire offerings. 23:00 minutes in length. These meditations introduce the Vedic meditation and are excellent for beginner or intermediate students; or students that are not familiar with Vedic meditation. Those that wish to order the CD should go to www.floridavedicinstitute.com/booksandcds.htm

Understanding the Kundalini by Yogi Harinam Baba Prem. This is an important work on demystifying the kundalini energy. It is designed for students and provides a quality introduction to the kundalini energy, its role, and function from the traditional view.
This book will dispel some common myths regarding the kundalini and provide a foundation for the aspiring student of spirituality. In addition, Ayurveda will be introduced and its importance touched upon as part of the spiritual path.

Yogi Harinam Baba Prem Tom Beal approaches the kundalini from a positive attitude and not from a position of fear or secrecy. He observes: “The kundalini is our Shakti, it is not something to be feared, but a part of our being that should be respected. It is the power of divinity within each individual. It is a powerful catalyst for personal and world transformation.” If you want to understand the basics of the kundalini energy, then you must read this book to start with; you will be introduced to the chakra symbols, sexuality and spirituality, mantra, breathing exercises, as well as several meditations and much more. It is a concise handbook on kundalini yoga for students of all levels. Purchased through www.sundeepbooks.com, or www.floridavedicinstitute.com. 72 pages, $10, ISBN: 8189320025.

Into the Mystical: Ancient Wisdom for Our Troubled Times, by Robert Taylor is an easy to read introduction into the important aspects of the Ancient Vedic teachings. These affect all aspects of our daily lives and can provide deep insights into what we need to do for ourselves and for our spiritual development. Covers such things as reincarnation, transcendental sound and mantras, spiritual solutions for political problems, vegetarianism, the spiritual world, becoming God realized, and much more.

It is 150 pages, $15, plus $4 for shipping and handling, and can be ordered from Robert Taylor, 842 Neff, Grosse Pointe, MI, 48230. ISBN: 10: 1-934851-03-5.